Work

Cumulative exposure of xenobiotics of emerging concern from agrifood under the One Health approach (XENOBAC4OH)

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Anthropogenic activities, such as industrial processes, urban development, intensive agriculture and waste disposal, have significantly contributed to the continuous introduction and accumulation of a wide array of xenobiotic compounds into natural ecosystems. Among them, emerging contaminants (ECs) such as pharmaceuticals, endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are of increasing concern due to their persistence, bioactivity and limited regulation. ECs enter ecosystems through diverse pathways including wastewater discharge, agricultural runoff and atmospheric deposition. Once released, many of these xenobiotics can bioaccumulate in organisms and enter the food chain, posing serious risks to food safety and public health. Traditional physico-chemical remediation methods are often insufficient or environmentally taxing, prompting a shift toward bio-based alternatives like bioremediation. These approaches, which rely on the activity of microbial communities to degrade pollutants, offer more sustainable solutions but require further interdisciplinary research to optimise their use. The One Health framework provides an effective model for addressing the complex risks posed by xenobiotics. This research programme aims to harmonise methodologies for cumulative dietary risk assessment across Europe and explore microbial strategies for xenobiotic degradation. By integrating microbiomics, toxicology, environmental science and food safety, this approach supports the development of safer food systems and more effective pollution management in line with the 'farm to fork' and One Health principles.

Source: EFSA Journal

DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2025.e231104

Authors: European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), Pilar Ortiz, Margarita Aguilera, Anna Kostka, Agnieszka Gruszecka‐Kosowska

Institution: AGH University of Krakow

Language: English

Topic: Pharmaceutical and Antibiotic Environmental Impacts

Subfield: Pollution

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,400